The classic mother-in-law suite used to be just an extra room in a tucked-away spot inside the house. But times have changed, and so has the terminology. Now there’s the granny flat—a cute little backyard dwelling that suggests both independence for grandma and a safe distance for family harmony. Let’s be honest, it might be best for everyone.
But these mini homes aren’t just for nana! Whether it’s your boomerang kid, broke sibling, cool uncle, or friend who swore they’d only be here for a week, ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) have become the perfect solution for short—or let’s face it, long-term—guests.
Let’s take a look at some amusing and oh-so-accurate names for these backyard dwellings, depending on who’s moving in:
1) Boomerang Bungalow—for Grown Kids Who Just Can’t Launch
They packed up, moved out, and took on the world… for about six months. Now they’re back, “just until they figure things out,” which apparently involves playing video games at 2 AM and eating all your leftovers. The Boomerang Bungalow is their personal HQ for job searching (aka scrolling TikTok) and laundry runs.
Alternative names: Launching Pad, Backyard Basement
2) The GrandPad—for the Cool Grandpa Who Needs His Own Pad
Grandpa’s still got it—whether “it” is legendary fishing stories or an inexplicable hatred for technology. He’s too independent for assisted living but also too fond of waking up at 4 AM to be inside your house. The GrandPad is a perfect retreat for his peace, his hobbies, and his collection of “things he swears will be worth something one day.”
Alternative names: Gramps Getaway, The Old Man Cave
3) The In-Law Out-House—for In-Laws Who Stay Too Long
Your in-laws came for a short visit—at least, that’s what they said. Now it’s been three months, they’ve memorized your Wi-Fi password, and they’re offering you unsolicited advice on how to load your own dishwasher. The In-Law Out-House is a diplomatic solution—close enough to keep the peace, far enough to preserve your sanity.
Alternative names: The Boundary Bungalow, The Overstay Chalet
4) The Funcle Bunker—for the Fun Uncle Who Never Settled Down
Every family has an uncle who tells the best stories, gives the worst advice, and somehow never quite got around to getting a mortgage. He’s got an old motorcycle, a record collection, and no real plans…other than he “never wants to grow up.” The Funcle Bunker is his new domain, where he can entertain the kids (and frustrate their parents) while maintaining his signature free spirit lifestyle.
Alternative names: The Midlife Mansion, The Peter Pan Pad
5) The Honeymoon Hut—For Newlyweds Saving for a House
They’re young, in love, and working hard to build their future together. The Honeymoon Hut gives them a cozy space to save for a down payment and enjoy their newlywed bliss, while sparing the rest of the household from needing noise-canceling headphones and some extra insulation between the bedroom walls.
Alternative names: The Budget Bungalow, The Wedding Wing
6) The Bestie Bunkhouse—For the Friend Who Might as Well Be Family
Your best friend swore they’d never move back home, yet here they are. They’re basically part of the family at this point—borrowing your car, showing up for dinner, and treating your fridge like a grocery store. The Bestie Bunkhouse is the ideal spot for your lifelong sidekick, giving them a place to stay while keeping your friendship (and your snack supply) intact.
Alternative names: The Bro Barn, The Ride-or-Die Den
